Relationships August 12, 2016
Growing up, you knew that you believed in a “higher power,” but you weren’t sure what religion matched your personal philosophy. Somewhere along the way you found it, that set of tenets and beliefs that almost perfectly align with your own. Your soul is hungry for the new spirituality you have uncovered and you cannot envision continuing your life without embracing it further.
If this is how you feel about your life, you are not alone. A study by the Pew Research Center found that in the next few decades, 106 million people will be abandoning Christianity, the world’s largest religion, to become a part of the growing collection of converts or religiously unaffiliated.
Additionally, nearly half of all men and women will change religions at least once in their lifetimes. But remember that because religion is deeply personal, you should not convert without careful consideration. Here are a few things to consider before taking the plunge/
Look inward to discover what it is you are seeking and why you are seeking it. What are your reasons for converting? What is it about this new religion that entices you? Do you actually believe in its tenets, or is it just convenient? Maybe your spouse is a part of the religion and you want to better integrate yourself into his or her traditions. And while hell hath no fury of your mother-in-law’s scorn, don’t let your mother-in-law’s warnings pressure you into converting to something you don’t really believe in. Make sure there are no ulterior motives.
Before converting, you’ll want to know the historical context, cultural background, spiritual and religious practices, and mythology surrounding your religion. Converting to Islam may mean leaving the proselytizing behind and engaging in more social-service and community oriented activities. If you are converting to Orthodox or Conservative Judaism, Haaretz warns that you will need to part with your foreskin or symbolically draw blood from the circumcision area. Along with understanding the conversion process, study the religious texts, engage in religious conversations, and participate in theological debates. Point being, read up and know what you’re getting in to before you make it official.
Yes, some new converts may be starry-eyed when detailing their profound experience, however, most new converts describe an initial feeling of exclusion. You may not look like the majority of the religion’s followers, and even if you do, not growing up with certain traditions will make you stand out. Haaretz points out that Orthodox law does not acknowledge any non-Orthodox convert as a Jew. Luckily, the convert is more often than not seen as a boon to the community. Gregory Beath, who works with the Roman Catholic community in Toronto, says “the faith of the whole community is deepened” with the addition of converts.
You may not be becoming a nun, but you are making a lifelong commitment to a set of values, a community and a specific doctrine. Converting is a life-changing decision and a huge commitment, the conversion process alone can take more than a year! While it’s healthy to keep exploring different faiths and spirituality, it’s important to make sure you feel rooted and secure (and informed!) before you officially convert.
Your parents might not be too happy if you’ve forsaken the beliefs from your upbringing and your friends might not understand the sudden interest in a new spirituality. Despite these reactions, only you know what’s best for you. As long as your faith isn’t hurting anyone, then you have every right to feel secure about it. Your friends and family may never get it, but stay strong and hold on to your convictions. Most importantly, remember to treat their beliefs with the same respect that you hope people will treat yours.
